Later this year, Oracle will begin requiring people interested in gaining Java and Solaris certifications to attend "hands-on" training courses, at an additional cost of thousands of dollars. The new rule goes into effect Aug. 1 and regards Java Architect, Java Developer, Solaris System Administrator and Solaris Security Administrator certification paths, according to a notice on Oracle's website.

I agree 100%. Oracle Corp has been on a huge acquisition binge for the past several years, even while they aggressively optimize their revenues on the backs of their existing customers.

They seem intent on acquiring the reputation Computer Associates had for years in IT shops. They don't seem realize how damaging this can be -- CA is only now escaping this image after a decade of trying.